CHAPTER 11
Timeline: 20 Days Until 18
“He’s been there all morning.”
Micah’s voice was soft, like he was sharing a secret he didn’t want anyone else to hear. He leaned against the kitchen counter, staring out the window toward the treeline where Cole’s truck sat half-hidden. His hands were in his pockets, but his jaw was tight, like he was holding onto something heavy.
“I know.” I stood beside him, keeping my voice just as quiet. “I checked ten minutes ago.”
“He won’t come closer.” Micah didn’t look at me. “He won’t cross the line. Not again. Not until you say so.”
“He’s already crossed every line that matters.” I kept my eyes on the trees, my chest aching. “And he’d do it again. In a heartbeat.”
“Because he loves you.” Micah turned his head slightly, and I caught the quiet intensit
